Reports To:  Immediate Supervisor:  Building Principal

Position Purpose: Topeka Public School elementary teachers demonstrate a commitment to learning for all students by maintaining organized- child-centered classrooms- by presenting content-rich and standards-based lessons and activities- by meeting individual needs through the use of assessments and data- and by using a variety of instructional strategies that are reflective of current best practices and research.

Qualifications:

The classroom teacher will meet all qualifications and behavior standards as set by the Kansas Department of Education.  In accordance with certification requirements and the performance expectations of Topeka Public Schools- all classroom teachers shall meet the following employment criteria:

• The minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university.
• A valid Kansas Teacher’s Certificate (applicable level-area endorsements preferred).
• ESOL Endorsement preferred.
• A completed credential file that meets the Topeka Public Schools` standards.
• Professional verification of successful classroom teacher performance and/or student teaching experience.
• Evidence of the willingness and the ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by the State Board of Education.
• Regular and predictable attendance is essential.

Physical/Emotional Requirements: This incumbent may be required to use the skills and abilities outlined below during any part of the working day.

While performing the duties of this job- the employee is frequently required to walk- sit- talk- and hear.  The employee is frequently required to stand and reach with hands and arms.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision- distance vision- depth perception- and the ability to adjust focus.  The employee is required to interact with staff and to meet demands from several people.  The employee is responsible for the work output of others.  On occasion- the employee may be required to work extended hours.

Performance Responsibilities:

• Communicates high expectations to all learners
• Incorporates appropriate use of technology
• Effectively implements the district-adopted curriculum
• Develops lesson plans by incorporating effective lesson design
• Routinely integrates a variety of informal and formal assessments into instruction
• Administers standardized tests in accordance with district testing protocol
• Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to achieve effective participation in activities and learning experiences
• Maintains up-to-date records of student progress
• Creates a positive- inviting- and safe learning environment
• Communicates effectively and promotes positive interpersonal relationships
• Supports the District’s educational mission for all students and implements all Board regulations and policies in a fair and equitable manner
• Maintains confidentiality
• Performs other tasks and assumes other responsibilities as the principal or superintendent may assign

Terms of Employment:

Salary and work year to be determined  in accordance with the Professional Agreement and approved by the Topeka Public Schools USD 501 Board of Education.

Evaluation: 

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Topeka Public Schools Board of Education policies for professional certified employees.

Significant Associations:

The performance responsibilities are not limited to those outlined in this description and may include any other responsibilities as assigned by the administrator/supervisor.

To apply for a position at Topeka Public Schools, please visit www.topekapublicschools.net, select Employment, and then Job Opportunities. Topeka Public Schools` students perform at the highest levels.  Students, staff members, and district leaders are recognized regularly for outstanding accomplishments. We offer a variety of comprehensive programs designed to fit to the needs and interests of all students. Excellence and equity are the standard. We educate all children. TPS schools have received national recognition for excellence in education, with several attaining the Kansas Standards of Excellence in reading and mathematics and many achieving remarkable double-digit gains. As the sixth largest school district in Kansas with an enrollment of about 12,000 students in elementary through high school, Topeka Public Schools is also the largest school district in Shawnee County.  Elementary schools range in size from 200 to 600 students. We have two elementary magnet schools.  One is a science and fine arts magnet school and the other is a computer magnet school. Middle school enrollments range between 400 to 600 students and our three high schools have enrollments of 800 to 1,800 students. Hope Street Academy, a charter high school, draws alternative students from across the district. A proud feature of our district is Hummer Sports Park, a six-sport complex featuring state-of-the-art facilities for football, track, soccer, baseball, softball, and swimming. We are committed to hiring and retaining superior employees to educate and meet the needs of each student. As the third largest employer in Topeka with over 2,400 certified and classified staff members, we provide a competitive salary schedule, district-paid insurance benefits, a generous leave package, and many other great benefits. If you are interested in joining our progressive school district, please check the job listings below and visit our website at www.topekapublicschools.net to learn more about Topeka Public Schools and complete your application.